The much-anticipated Greater Karachi Bulk Water Supply Scheme (K-IV) is making steady progress, with over 50% of physical work completed on Stage-I of the project. According to official sources, the first phase is expected to be operational by June 2026, delivering 260 million gallons per day (MGD) of water to Karachi.
Key Highlights of the K-IV Project
- Phase-I Progress: Over Rs 56.44 billion has been spent so far on various components, including intake works, pumping stations, pressurized pipelines, access roads, and project facilities.
- Project Cost: The total cost for Phase-I is estimated at Rs 126 billion, under the supervision of the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA).
- Future Capacity: Once completed, the K-IV project will supply 650 MGD of water to Karachi in two phases.
- Phase-I: Supply of 260 MGD.
- Phase-II: An additional 390 MGD will be added to the city’s water supply system.
Timeline and History
The K-IV project, designed to transport water from Keenjhar Lake to Karachi, was initially approved in 2014 under the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government. The project was allocated Rs 849 million in the federal budget for 2014-15.
Current Developments
WAPDA is rapidly advancing work on crucial project sites, including pumping stations and pipelines. Officials remain optimistic about meeting the 2026 deadline for Phase-I.
This mega water project is expected to address Karachi’s chronic water shortages and significantly enhance the city’s water supply capacity once fully completed.